Spirits are one of the biggest gameplay systems in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, adding character enhancements and unique abilities to single-player modes and Spirit Battles. While they do not affect standard competitive Smash rules, they play an important role in World of Light, the Spirit Board, and other offline content.
This guide explains how Spirits work, how to build stronger Spirit teams, and the best ways to improve your collection.
What are Spirits in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?
Spirits are collectible characters from Nintendo and guest franchises that can be equipped to fighters to increase their stats or grant special abilities.
Every Spirit team consists of one Primary Spirit and, depending on that Primary Spirit, one or more Support Spirits. Together, they improve your fighter’s performance in Spirit Battles and Adventure Mode.
Primary Spirits vs. Support Spirits
Understanding the two Spirit types is the key to building effective teams.
Primary Spirits
Primary Spirits provide your fighter’s main Attack and Defense bonuses. You can equip only one Primary Spirit at a time.
Each Primary Spirit also has:
- An Attack and Defense rating
- A level that increases through experience
- A type
- A limited number of support slots
Higher-level Primary Spirits generally provide greater overall power.
Support Spirits
Support Spirits do not replace your Primary Spirit. Instead, they occupy available support slots and grant additional effects.
Examples include abilities that:
- Reduce damage from hazards
- Increase jump height
- Improve movement speed
- Enhance specific attacks
- Provide resistance to environmental effects
Support Spirits are especially useful for Spirit Battles with unusual stage conditions.
How Spirit types work
Primary Spirits belong to one of three main types:
- Attack
- Shield
- Grab
These follow a rock-paper-scissors relationship:
- Attack is strong against Grab.
- Grab is strong against Shield.
- Shield is strong against Attack.
Choosing the correct Spirit type gives you an advantage against opposing Spirit teams, making difficult battles much easier.
How to get more Spirits
Players can expand their collection through several official game modes.
Spirit Board
The Spirit Board regularly offers battles against different Spirits. Winning a battle gives you a chance to obtain that Spirit.
World of Light
Adventure Mode rewards players with Spirits as they explore the world, defeat enemies, and unlock fighters.
Summoning
Some Spirits can be created by combining Spirit Cores earned from duplicate Spirits or dismissed Spirits.
Shops and rewards
Additional Spirits can become available through in-game shops and other official game rewards. Nintendo has also added previously event-exclusive Spirits through game updates.
How to level up Spirits
Primary Spirits become stronger as they gain experience from battles.
You can also increase their levels more quickly by using Spirit Snacks earned through gameplay.
Some Spirits can be enhanced after reaching their maximum level, transforming into a stronger version with improved abilities.
Tips for building stronger Spirit teams
- Match your Spirit type against the opponent whenever possible.
- Equip Support Spirits that counter battle hazards.
- Level up your favorite Primary Spirits instead of constantly switching teams.
- Save high-slot Primary Spirits for difficult battles that require multiple Support abilities.
- Read each Spirit Battle’s conditions before choosing your team.
Do Spirits work in online battles?
Spirits are available only in modes that support Spirit gameplay.
Standard Smash battles and most competitive online play use normal fighter stats without Spirit enhancements, helping keep competitive matches balanced.
Frequently asked questions
Can every fighter use every Spirit?
Yes. Any fighter can equip eligible Primary and Support Spirits, although certain Spirit abilities may be more useful with specific playstyles.
Do Spirits unlock fighters?
Spirits themselves do not unlock fighters. However, World of Light includes both Spirit progression and fighter unlocks as you advance through Adventure Mode.
Can I change my Spirit team before battles?
Yes. Before most Spirit Battles, you can adjust your equipped Primary and Support Spirits to better match the upcoming challenge.
What is the strongest Spirit?
There is no single best Spirit for every situation. The strongest setup depends on the battle conditions, Spirit type matchup, support abilities, and your preferred fighter.
Source: Pokemon
